1. Refers to the practice in cinema or theatre of a non-Asian (typically white) actor/actress playing the role of an Asian character. More specifically, it refers to the use of makeup and prosthetics to give the actor a "more Asian" appearance; also, actors often affect a heavy accent and/or speak in poor English. Related to "blackface."

2. By extension, can mean the practice of taking on an ethnically stereotypical persona; metaphorically, an Asian actor may be "donning yellowface" merely by portraying an Asian character in an exaggerated and/or demeaning fashion.

2. Although "Madame Butterfly" stories usually feature a woman of Asian heritage in the role of the Asian female lead, the Asian actress can arguably be accused of being in "yellowface" by portraying such a stereotypical and unflattering character.